Location
The oldest and also biggest structure in Kolhapur is Bhavani Mandap, which was known as Glory of the city. This building was constructed during the period 1785-1800 AD of the Kolhapur ruler Shivaji Maharaj II. Originally the Mandap had 14 squares and the invasion of Muslim King Sadatkhan in 1813 ruined 7 squares.
In the middle of the Bhavani Mandap, a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhavani is placed. The mandap is a wonderful structure with many adornments like cluster of lights (Zumbur) brought from Italy and the major entrance hall is splendid and tall. A lively statue of Shahu Maharaj is placed near the hall and varieties of stuffed creatures are preserved in the hall adding the beauty of the Mandap.
